U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that the American naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is expanding globally. Hegseth confirmed the U.S. Navy has turned back 34 ships to date. The Pentagon stated that no vessels may exit the strait without explicit U.S. permission.
The standoff has halted the passage of nearly 20% of the world's traded oil. This escalation is driving upward pressure on global oil prices and increasing market uncertainty. Analysts warn of lasting disruptions to global energy markets.
Iran’s foreign minister is scheduled to visit Pakistan for talks aimed at de-escalating the crisis.